12 NEET UG Aspirants Die by Suicide in 37 Days Before Re-Examination Amid Mounting Pressure

At least 12 NEET UG 2026 aspirants across India died by suicide in the 37-day period between the cancellation of the examination and the scheduled re-examination on June 21, highlighting the immense pressure and uncertainty faced by students.

The National Testing Agency announced the re-examination after the original NEET UG 2026 exam was cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. Investigations reportedly focused on the circulation of a 150-page “guess paper” in Rajasthan’s Sikar, with links being examined to an interstate network.

Among the victims was a 22-year-old student from Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district who had been confident after appearing for the exam on May 3. He reportedly told his father that his performance had gone so well that even “God cannot stop me from qualifying”. However, after the announcement of the retest, he became deeply distressed and died by suicide three days later.

According to reports, all 12 students were preparing to appear for the June 21 re-examination. In several cases, families and authorities did not find any suicide note.

One student, the son of a daily wage labourer, was living in Sikar while preparing for the medical entrance examination. Following his death, his family has demanded compensation and government support, refusing to complete certain last rites until their demands are addressed.

Another tragic incident was reported in Sikar, where a 22-year-old student allegedly died by suicide after returning from coaching-related activities. Police said a note was found at the scene expressing regret and saying he was leaving the world.

The incidents have renewed concerns over the mental health pressure faced by competitive exam aspirants, with experts and education advocates calling for stronger student support systems during periods of academic uncertainty.